The stage is set for one of the most anticipated events in the global football calendar. The official draw ceremony for the FIFA World Cup 2026 will take place on Friday, December 5, 2025. This pivotal event will determine the group stage fixtures for the first-ever 48-team World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
When and Where to Watch the FIFA World Cup Draw in India
For football fans across India eager to catch the draw live, the event will be broadcast during prime evening hours. The ceremony is scheduled to begin at 7:30 PM IST on December 5. The grand spectacle will be held in a yet-to-be-disclosed major city, continuing FIFA's tradition of hosting these draws in iconic global locations.
Indian viewers will have multiple options to tune in. The draw will be telecast live on the Sports18 network. For those who prefer streaming, the event will be available live on the JioCinema app and website. This ensures fans can follow the proceedings whether they are at home or on the move.
Understanding the 2026 World Cup Draw Format
The 2026 edition marks a historic expansion of the tournament from 32 to 48 teams. This change introduces a new group stage format. The teams will be divided into 12 groups of four teams each. The draw will allocate nations into these groups based on their FIFA World Rankings, which will be released prior to the event.
The seeding pots are crucial for creating balanced groups. Typically, the highest-ranked teams are placed in Pot 1, and the draw proceeds from there, with geographic considerations also playing a role to avoid having too many teams from the same confederation in one group. The exact draw procedure and seeding criteria for the expanded format will be confirmed by FIFA closer to the date.
What This Draw Means for Football's Future
The draw for the 2026 World Cup is more than just a ceremonial event; it is the first major step that makes the tournament tangible for players and fans. It sets the narrative for the next six months of build-up, analysis, and anticipation. For the participating nations, it defines their initial path in the quest for football's ultimate prize.
For fans in India and around the world, watching the draw live is an exciting experience. It is the moment when dream group-stage matches are conceived and potential knockout round paths are mapped out. The expansion to 48 teams also means more nations will have a chance to make their mark, potentially creating new footballing rivalries and unforgettable stories.
Mark your calendars for December 5, 2025, at 7:30 PM IST. Whether you watch on Sports18 or stream via JioCinema, this is an unmissable event for every football enthusiast, setting the stage for a groundbreaking FIFA World Cup in North America.
